Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs

Geographical Range

Central Africa

Habitat

Grasslands, savannahs, bushlands, agricultural areas, gardens

Scientific Name

Atelerix albiventris

Conservation Status

Common

This little mammal sports a thick coat of 5,000 sharp spines. These serve as a handy defense against predators, especially when the hedgehog rolls up into a ball to protect its soft underbelly. Hedgehogs aren't picky about what they eat. Their diet includes insects of all kinds, earthworms, frogs, lizards, mice, seeds, fruit and plant matter.

Hedgehogs are solitary and nocturnal animals. Although currently popular in the pet trade, this lifestyle makes them a poor choice for a pet.